The Rebellion Record—A Diary of American Events; by Frank Moore

—The bridges at Point of Rocks and Berlin, on the Potomac, River, were burned by order of Johnston, the rebel general. Neither of them were railroad bridges.—N. Y. Herald, June 10.

—The Sanitary Commission was authorized by the Secretary of War, and approved by the President. Its aim is to help, by cautious suggestion, in the laborious and extraordinary exigencies of military affairs, when the health of the soldiers is a matter of the most critical importance. The commission consists of the Rev. Dr. Bellows, Prof. A. D. Bache, LL. D., Prof. Wolcott Gibbs, M. D., Prof. Jeffries Wyman, M. D., W. H. Van Buren, M. D., Dr. S. G. Howe, Dr. Wood, U. S. A., Col. Cullum, U. S. A., and Major Shires, U. S. A.—N. Y. Commercial, June 10.

—Some disunion troops from Leesburg, Va., burnt four bridges on the Alexandria, Loudon, and Hampshire Railroad, at Tuscarora, Lycoline, Goose Creek, and Beaver Dams, being the balance of the bridges from Leesburg to Broad Run.—N. Y. World, June 15.

—The ceremony of the presentation of a Confederate flag, from the ladies of Baltimore to the members of the Maryland Guard, now in Virginia, took place in the Capitol grounds, at Richmond, Va. Mrs. Augustus McLaughlin, the wife of one of the officers of the late United States Navy, who brought the flag from Baltimore, concealed as only a lady knows how, was present, and received the compliments of a large number of ladies and gentlemen who surrounded her upon the steps of the monument, from which the address was made. The presentation speech was made by the Hon. J. M. Mason. Accompanying the flag is the inscription: “The ladies of Baltimore present this flag of the Confederate States of America to the soldiers composing the Maryland Regimen; now serving in Virginia, as a slight testimonial of the esteem in which their valor, their love of right, and determination to uphold true constitutional liberty, are approved, applauded, and appreciated by the wives and daughters of the monumental city.”—(Doc. 289.)—Richmond Dispatch, June 10.

—Gov. Hicks, of Maryland, issued a proclamation calling upon all persons having arms belonging to ‘that State, to surrender them.—(Doc. 240.)

—This morning a detachment of Federal troops from Annapolis, on one of the steamers of the Ericsson line, made their appearance in Miles River, and landed at the ferry, the nearest point to Easton, Md. On landing they proceeded to arrest Messrs. Thomas and William Holliday, whom they compelled to inform them where the armory for the safe-keeping of the guns was located. They also arrested Charles G. Kerr, Esq., late of the Exchange newspaper, and a Mr. Roberts, and several others. The military then proceeded on their search for arms, and succeeded in finding a number of muskets, and several iron field-pieces, all of which they put on the steamer and removed to Annapolis. Two of the old iron field-pieces were some time since removed from Cambridge, where they were planted for the defence of that place in the war of 1814. Before going to Miles River Ferry they stopped at the farm of Capt. Ogle Tilghman, a few miles below, but did not find the proprietor at home. They reported to Mrs. T. that they were from Richmond, and had come for the purpose of offering arms to the inhabitants, at the same time asking if there were any in the house. There were none but the private arms of Capt. T., which they did not disturb. While the detachment was drawn up on the boat, one of the soldiers placed the muzzle of his musket under his chin for a rest for his head, when the weapon accidentally discharged. The ball passed out through the top of his head, killing him instantly, and then passed through the hurricane deck in close proximity to two soldiers who were there. The detachment consisted of 250 men of the N. Y. 13th Regiment, under Col. Abel Smith.—Baltimore Sun, June 11.

—General T. A. Morris, commanding the United States troops at Philippi, issued a proclamation announcing that Western Virginia is now free from the enemies to her peace, the United States forces having routed the secessionists at Philippi, causing them to flee for refuge to the passes of the mountains; and he therefore calls upon all loyal Virginians to come to the support of the United States Government, and serve in defence of their own soil.—(Doc. 241.)

—The New Orleans Catholic Standard says: “Let no Southern child be educated outside the limits of the Confederate States. We have excellent schools and colleges at Richmond and Norfolk in Virginia; at Charleston and Columbia in South Carolina; at Savannah and Augusta in Georgia; at St. Augustine in Florida; at Mobile in Alabama; at Bay St. Louis, Pass Christian, Sulphur Springs, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi; at Fort Smith, Helena, and Little Rock in Arkansas; at Marksville, and Memphis in Tennessee; at Galveston, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Brownsville, and Liberty in Texas; and at St. Michael’s Grand Coteau; Vermillionville, Thibodeaux, Donaldsonville, Natchitoches, Avoyelles, Alexandria, Shreveport, Iberville, Algiers, and New Orleans in Louisiana. The social bonds between us and the Catholics at the North have been severed by them. We acknowledge them no longer as our countrymcn. They and their institutions have no claims upon us.”

—The Burlington (Vt.) Times, of this date, contains an extended narrative of the movements of the First Vermont Regiment at Fortress Monroe and its vicinity.—(Doc. 242.)

—Addresses to the People of the United States and to the people of Kentucky, signed by J. J. Crittenden, Jas. Guthrie and others, members of the Border State Convention, lately in session at Frankfort, Ky., were published. Only the States of Kentucky and Missouri were represented; one gentleman was irregularly present from Tennessee. To the people of the United States the Convention says that, “in its opinion, the obligation exists to maintain the Constitution of the United States and to preserve the Union unimpaired;” and suggests that something “ought to be done” to quiet “apprehension within the slave States that already adhere to the Union,” To the people of Kentucky they say that the proper course for that State “to pursue, is to take no part in the controversy between the Government and the seceded States but that of mediator and intercessor,” and ask if this “is not an attitude worthy of a great people.” —(Doc. 243.)

—The Engineer Corps of the Sixty-ninth Regiment of New York, with Company B, of the Second Cavalry, took five prisoners and a drove of cattle, fifty in number, which were on their way to the secession forces.—N. Y, World, June. 10.

—An express messenger arrived at New Orleans from Mr. Adolphe Ducros’s plantation, at the mouth of Bayou Bienvenu, which empties into Lake Borgne, with information to Maj.-Gen. Twiggs, that two fishermen had reported the arrival of two small war steamers in Lake Borgne, one carrying three guns, and the other a long pivot gun forward. The fishermen stated that the steamers lay off in the lake, and that night before last they sent two boats towards the mouth of the bayou, as was supposed, for taking soundings. Gen. Twiggs ordered Major Taylor, in command of the barracks, to proceed immediately to Martello Tower, at the mouth of Bayou Bienvenu, with a company of infantry, to garrison the tower, which contains several heavy mounted guns, for the protection of this avenue to the city. This point is but ten miles from New Orleans in a direct line, and a little over fifteen by the Mexican Gulf Railroad. It is celebrated for being the point at which the British landed their troops in the war of 1813-’14.—New Orleans Picayune, June 8.

—The Tenth Regiment, of New York, arrived at Fortress Monroe.—N. Y. Times, June 9.

—The tents at Camp McClure, Chambersburg, Pa., were struck at six o’clock A. M., and the line of march taken up soon afterwards for Brown’s Mill, near Green Castle, and eight miles distant from Camp McClure. The force in motion was Brig.-Gen. Thomas’ command, was headed by him, and included the U. S. Cavalry, (recently from Texas,) 4 companies, the Philadelphia City Troop, and the 2 companies of artillerists, commanded by Captains Doubleday and Seymour, McMullin’s Independent Rangers, the Twenty-third Regiment, Col. Dare, the Twenty-first Regiment, Col. Ballier, and the Sixth Regiment, Col. Nagle. The line was nearly 2 miles in length. The men all had their knapsacks closely slung to prevent jolting, and had evidently prepared themselves, so far as their knowledge taught them, for a long march.—Idem.

—The Indiana Regiment of Zouaves, Col. Wallace, fully armed and equipped, passed through Cincinnati, Ohio, en route for Cumberland, Md. They made a splendid appearance, and were enthusiastically received.—Ohio State Journal, June 8.

—Colonel Corcoran, of the Sixty-ninth N. Y. Regiment, with a detachment of one hundred men, proceeded to Ball’s Corner, 5 miles beyond the lines in Virginia, where he arrested a party of five secessionists, one wearing the uniform of a secession sergeant; one, named Richard Meitch, an employé at the capital as watchman, and one named Ball, a rich farmer, on whom was found a muster roll of a rebel company, and in whose house were found arms, bedding, and cooking utensils for a company of at least fifty men. Nine hundred dollars in gold were also found, but returned by the mistaken generosity of the sergeant, to Ball’s wife, without the Colonel’s knowledge until after their return to the camp—N. Y. Times, June 8.

—The New York Nineteenth Regiment, from Elmira, commanded by Col. Clark, and the Third Maine Regiment Volunteers, Col. Howard, arrived at Washington.—(Doc. 238.)

—A crew of 402 seamen, ordinary seamen, and landsmen, left the receiving-ship North Carolina at Brooklyn, for Portsmouth, N. H., where they will constitute a ship’s company for the United States frigate Santee, which, after lying in various positions at the Navy Yard for half a century, has been put in commission for blockade service. The Advance Brigade of Federal troops, under Col. Thomas, reached Greencastle, thirteen miles south of Chambersburg, Pa.—N. Y. World, and N. Y. Times, June 8.

—Gov. Pickens of South Carolina issued a proclamation saying:—“I have understood that many good people have been remitting funds to creditors in Northern States. In the existing relations of the country such conduct is in conflict with public law, and all citizens—are hereby warned against the consequences.”—N. Y. Tribune, June 14.

—This evening the Town Guard of Harrodsburg, Ky., were attracted to the Spring Grounds by a noise in that direction. When they came near the old shooting gallery they heard voices responding to one who seemed to be officiating as an officer. Surrounding the building, they pushed open the door, and lo! an assembly of Knights of the Golden Circle in masks! One of the Guard, on entering, knocked off the mask of one of the Knights; and a lawyer and secessionist stood forth. No examination of the arcana was made, a majority of the Guards being secessionists. Several Virginia gentlemen were in Harrodsburg that night.—Louisville Journal, June 14.

—The Nineteenth N. Y. Regiment, Colonel Clark commander, left Elmira for Washington, via Harrisburg. An immense concourse of people witnessed the departure. Great enthusiasm prevailed—N. Y: Herald, June 7.

—A meeting was held at the Cooper Institute, in New York, for the purpose of securing the cooperation of citizens in the endeavor to provide for the religious wants of volunteers. Wm. E. Dodge, Esq., presided, and addresses were made by Rev. Drs. Tyng and Hitchcock, after which the following resolutions were adopted:

Resolved, That in the opinion of this meeting the project of the Young Men’s Christian Association, to provide for the religious wants of the Volunteers, is worthy of public confidence and cooperation, and that we commend the same to the support of the churches and the community.

Resolved, That Messrs. William E. Dodge, Wilson G. Hunt, Benj. F. Maniere, Benj. W. Bonney, and Alexander W. Bradford, be appointed a committee to receive donations in furtherance of the proposed object, to be expended under the supervision of the army committee of the Young Men’s Christian Association.—N. Y: Commercial, June 7.

—A secession camp at Ellicott’s Mills, in Kentucky, ten miles distant from Cairo, Ill., was dispersed by two companies sent thither by General Prentiss. Colonel Wickliffe protested against the act as an invasion of the soil of Kentucky, to which Gen. Prentiss said, in reply, that the act had been prompted by a letter claiming protection for the Union men there. He declared his intention also to send troops any place needed for the protection of loyal citizens.—National Intelligencer, June 8.

—In the New York Chamber of Commerce it was Resolved, That the Executive Committee of this Chamber, after consultation with and subject to the approval of Col. Anderson, or his second is command, cause to be prepared a suitable medal for each of the soldiers and non-commissioned officers of the late garrison of Fort Sumter, and to have them presented at as early a day as possible, at the expense of this Chamber.

By amendment the resolution was made to include the garrison of Fort Pickens under Lieutenant Slemmer, and the officers of both garrisons.—N. Y. Tribune, June 7.

—Thirty-five of the prisoners captured at Alexandria, took the oath of allegiance with cheerful alacrity, and were discharged.— Washington Star, June 7.

—A demand was served upon Messrs. Daniel J. Foley & Bros., Baltimore, by Mr. Bonifant, the United States Marshal, under instructions from Mr. Cameron, Secretary of War, calling for the immediate delivery into the possession of the Marshal of all the powder of the Hazard Powder Company, Connecticut, stored in the powder-house of the company at Lower Canton. The amount of the powder on hand was about 8,500 kegs, or 60,000 pounds, valued at $16,000. The agents turned the powder over to the Marshal, who took an inventory of the same. A similar demand, from the same source, was made upon Messrs. A. L Webb & Bro., Baltimore, agents for the Messrs. Dupont’s powder works, Delaware. The demand was complied with, and the powder on hand, a small amount, turned over into the possession of the United States. —Baltimore Sun, June 6.

—General Beauregard issued a proclamation from Manassas Junction, giving an extravagant picture of the deplorable consequences to be expected from an invasion of the Federal forces.—(Doc. 234.)

—At Williamsport a Baltimorean, named Dewitt C. Rench, swore he could whip the whole Union force, and that he had killed at least one man in the attack upon the Massachusetts Regiment in Baltimore. His friends tried to get him away and put him on a horse, when he drew a revolver and fired two shots at individuals and three into the crowd. Three shots were returned, all taking effect, killing him instantly.—Philadelphia Ledger, June 7.

—Throughout all the counties of Virginia, within forty or fifty miles of Harper’s Ferry, a levy of militia is being now made by draft. All the men between eighteen and fifty years of age, not physically incapable of doing military duty, are enlisted, and three-tenths of the whole are to be mustered into the field. The names are placed in one box, and as many numbers—from one to ten (repeated)—are placed in another box. When a name is drawn forth a number is also drawn; and if it be either No. 1, 2, or 3, the person is “elected” a soldier into the disunion army. Otherwise he escapes immediate service.—Washington Star, June 6.

—Ninth Regiment N. Y. V., Colonel Hawkins; left New York for Fortress Monroe. —(Doc. 235.)

—The Richmond (Va.) Whig of to-day announces that after to-day no passports will be issued to persons leaving the State, and no one will be admitted to the State except for reasons of peculiar force; also, that the Tennessee volunteers in Virginia are authorized to vote on the ordinance of the secession of Tennessee, although stationed in Virginia.

—A Bank Convention, held at Atlanta, Ga., recommended that all the Southern banks, railroads, and tax collectors, receive the Treasury notes of the Confederacy as currency, and both States, cities, and corporations having coupons payable at New York, to appoint the place of payment South.—N. Y. Herald, June 10.

—About eight o’clock this morning the steamer Harriet Lane, under the command of Capt. Faunce, United States Navy, proceeded up the James River, from Fortress Monroe, as far as the month of the Nasemond, for the purpose of reconnoitring and looking out for batteries. It was not long before she observed a large and heavy battery planted upon the point, which is nearly opposite Newport News Point, and about five miles distant. The steamer opened fire, which was briskly returned by the batteries, and for nearly a half hour the action continued. It was found that but one gun of the steamer could reach the battery, the guns of which being heavier easily reached the former, and several shot struck her. During the affair the most intense excitement prevailed, and hundreds of soldiers ascended the ramparts and roof of the Hygeia Hotel, for the purpose of looking at the scene. The Lane returned in an hour after the action, and made an official report to Com. Pendergrast of the squadron. Lieut. Duncan, of the Harriet Lane, states that the fight was pretty hot. The steamer threw several shells into the battery with much accuracy. The battery was well served, the damage to the cutter having been inflicted with a 84-pounder rifled cannon. It was at first thought that no battery existed at the place where the fight occurred, and the Harriet Lane was sent to ascertain if the report was true. Elbe found out that one did exist, and that seven guns were mounted upon it, and hence the attempt made to dislodge them.—National Intelligencer, June 8.

—A letter from Cassius M. Clay to the London Times, in relation to the civil war in America, is published in the United States. Mr. Clay says that the rebellion can be subdued, but that it is not the intention of the U. S. Government to subjugate the Southern States; that only rebels will be punished; that it is the interest of England to support the Government; and that it is unwise for England to venture to sow seeds of discord, for she is far from secure from home revolution or foreign attack in the future. In conclusion Mr. Clay claims that England is the natural ally of the United States.—(Doc. 236.)

—The people of Wheeling, Va., were greatly astounded upon learning that Major A. Loring had been arrested by United States officers. He was taken to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad depot, where he remained until 7 o’clock, when the train left for Grafton. Major Loring’s arrest was occasioned by certain papers found upon the person of W. J. Willey, who was captured after the skirmish at Phillippa, and who charged with leading the party who destroyed the bridges on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, between Wheeling and Grafton.—(Doc. 237.)

—The U. S. Marshal took possession of the gun factory of Messrs. Merrill & Thomas, in Baltimore, and seized all the breech-loading muskets in the establishment. Intimation was given that ample employment would soon be given to the establishment in the manufacture, of arms for the Government.—N. Y. Express, June 5.

—The Memphis Bulletin of to-day contains the following: “Persons having slaves at home, whose services can be dispensed with for the next ten or fifteen days, would do a great kindness to the volunteers at Randolph, by sending negro men to that point. The volunteers should be drilled, and the fortifications, on which they have labored so long and faith should be finished by negroes.”

—A man named Fletcher, living in Columbia township, Randolph County, Ark., divulged last week a plot to the citizens which he had discovered among the negroes in that vicinity. The plot contemplated the murder of several citizens who they supposed had money, and then making their way to the free States. An investigation led to the development of the fact that certain negroes had proposed to give Fletcher $20 each to take them to a free State, announcing that their plan contemplated the murder of citizens, the possession of their means, and their final escape to the North. The negroes implicated by Fletcher, twenty in number, were arrested. A white man named Percifield, found guilty of being an instigator in the affair, was hung, as was also Fletcher, who was connected with Percifield.—Memphis (Tenn.) Avalanche, June 5.

—Elias Howe, Jr., of New York, the sewing machine millionaire, presented each field and staff officer of the Massachusetts Fifth Regiment, at the seat of war, with a stallion fully equipped for service.—N. Y. Express.

—The Tenth Regiment N. Y. Volunteers, National Zouaves, Colonel McChesney, left their encampment at Sandy Hook for Fortress Monroe. Previous to their departure they paraded through the city of New York, where they received a flag.—N. Y. Sun, June 5.

—The Savannah Republican of to-day has the following: “Notice to the Press.—We are requested by the military authorities of the Confederate States to urge upon our brethren of the press throughout the South the importance of abstaining from all specific allusions to the movement of troops. The very wisest plans of the Government may be thwarted by an untimely or otherwise injudicious exposure.”

A directly opposite policy appears to prevail at the North. Not only is every movement of the Federal troops Heralded abroad with lightning speed for the “sensation press,” but it would seem as if the news-gatherers have access to the records of the Departments, so as to enable them to proclaim in advance every plan and purpose of the Government, whether great or small.—National Intelligencer, June 18.

—Noah L. Farnham, late Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment of Fire Zouaves of New York, was appointed Colonel of that Regiment, in place of the late Colonel Ellsworth.—N. Y. World, June 5.

—Judge Taney’s written opinion in the habeas corpus case of Merriman, was published in the Washington National Intelligencer of this date. It is simply a protest against the suspension of the writ by the President of the United States. The Judge argues that Congress alone has the legal authority to suspend this privilege, and that the President cannot “in any emergency, or in any state of things,” authorize its suspension.

—Ten Regiments of foot, with Doubleday’s, Dodge’s, and Seymour’s batteries of flying artillery and five hundred dragoons, were in camp around Chambersburg, Pa.—Thirty-two men arrived at Williamsport, Md., from Berkley Co., Va., whence they had fled to avoid impressment into the rebel army.—A new Collector was appointed for Louisville, Kentucky, with orders to prohibit the shipment South of provisions, via that port.—N. Y. Herald, June 5.

—A proclamation dated Fort Smith, Arkansas, and signed “W. F. Rector, Asst. Adjutant-General,” says, “the authority of the United States has ceased upon this frontier.”—(Doc. 232.)

—The Natchez (Miss.) Courier of this day has the following: “A wise and salutary law was passed by the Confederate Congress, before its adjournment, prohibiting, during the existence of the blockade of any of the Southern ports by the United States Government, the exportation of any raw cotton or cotton yarn except through the seaports of the Confederate States. The penalty for a violation of the law is the forfeiture of the cotton or yarn so at empted to be exported, as also fine or imprisonment for the person violating it. Every steamboat or railroad car, used with the consent of the person owning or in charge of it for the purpose of violating the act, is also forfeited. This law completely blocks the Lincoln scheme. The Administration’s idea was, that if Southern ports were blockaded, the cotton would go by inland routes to Northern seaports for exportation. Great Britain and France will now have to go without cotton, or else raise the Lincoln blockade.”—(See Doc. p. 292.)

—Major-General Price (rebel) of Missouri, issued a proclamation “to prevent all misunderstanding of his opinions and intentions,” and expressed the desire “that the people of Missouri should exercise the right to choose their own position” in the contest.—(Doc. 233.)

—Quartermaster T. Bailey Myers arrived at New York from Fortress Monroe, bringing from that quarter a secession flag as a present to the Union Defence Committee. The flag was captured at Hampton village, near the fort, and when taken was flying from its staff on the roof of John Tyler’s country residence. Lieutenant Duryea, the colonel’s son, let down the traitorous emblem, and ran up the Stars and Stripes, which are now flying. The scouting detachment brought in the secession colors to head-quarters, and they were forwarded by Major-General Butler. The flag is a dirty looking affair of red, white, and blue flannel, with eight stars. It is roughly made, the sewing having been done by half-taught fingers. —N. Y. Commercial Advertiser, June 4.

—Gen. Beauregard arrived at Manassas Junction, and assumed command of the rebel forces there.—N. Y. Times, June 6.

—At night twelve volunteers from Camp Lincoln, near Leavenworth, Kansas, headed by Sergeant Decurin, of the Elwood Guards, armed with Minié rifles and revolvers, marched to Iatan, Mo., fourteen miles above Leavenworth city, and crossed in skiffs to capture a secession flag. When asked their purpose, Decurin demanded the flag by the authority of the United States. The flag was hauled down, and the party started on their return, when they were fired at by the secessionists, and the fire was returned. Three of the volunteers were wounded, one severely.—N. Y. World, June 6.

—At 1 A. M., the Union force from Grafton, approached Philippi, a little town on the Monongahela, 20 miles south of Grafton, occupied by 1,500 rebels. Scouts went forward to reconnoitre, a favorable report was received, and the troops advanced about 5 A. M., and were fired at by the sentinels on duty, who appeared to be the only men on the alert. The camp, however, was immediately aroused, and before it was reached by our troops three companies of riflemen advanced to meet them, and delivered a volley as CoL Kelly’s regiment turned the corner of a street. They then turned and retreated towards the main body. At this fire several of our men were slightly wounded, and Col. Kelly received a ball in the side. The regiment pressed on, and was quickly followed by the Indiana and Ohio regiments. When the column got within range of the main body of the enemy, the latter delivered a straggling fire, and then at once broke and fled. It was a complete rout. The Union troops delivered a volley with good effect at the enemy, and then charged upon them at full run. The enemy took the direction of Leedsville, ten miles further south. Col. Crittenden ordered the Ohio regiment to stay and guard the town, and the other two regiments continued the pursuit They returned after daylight, with several prisoners. The secessionists had no idea of being attacked. They had no intrenchments, and had only set the ordinary guard. One or two of the Federal troops were killed. The loss of the secessionists, so far as known, is sixteen killed, a large number wounded, and ten prisoners. Some twenty-five of Col. Kelly’s men were wounded, but none dangerously. The amount of ammunition captured was not large, but there was a lot of camp kettles and provisions, and miscellaneous camp equipage, that fell into the hands of the federal troops; also seventeen horses. Col. Kelly’s wound was not mortal.—(Doc. 228.)

—Stephen A. Douglas, Senator of the United States from Illinois, died at Chicago at ten minutes past nine o’clock in the morning. —Buffalo Courier, June 4.

—The Fourteenth Regiment, Colonel Johnson, and the Fifteenth, Colonel Oakford, of Pennsylvania Volunteers, arrived at General Patterson’s camp at Chambersburg from Lancaster.—National Intelligencer, June 6.

—The British Government decided not to allow the entry of privateers into any of their ports. This was announced by Lord John Russell in Parliament., saying that Government had determined to prohibit privateers from bringing prizes into any British port. It was also stated that France intended adhering to the law which prohibits privateers remaining in port over twenty-four hours.—(Doc. 229.)

—The border State Convention met at Frankfort, Kentucky.—N. Y. Tribune, May 27.

—Major-General Patterson, from headquarters at Chambersburg, Pa., issued a proclamation announcing to the soldiers that “they would soon meet the insurgents.”—(Doc. 230.)

—The First Regiment Scott Life Guard and the Third Regiment N. Y. S. V., left New York city for Fortress Monroe.—(Doc. 231.)

—Three thousand men, of Indiana, Ohio, and Virginia volunteers, the whole under command of Col. Crittenden, of Indiana, were assembled on the parade ground at Grafton, Va., in the afternoon, and informed in general terms that they were to start on a forced march that night. They were then supplied with ammunition and one day’s rations, and dismissed. The men were full of ardor, expecting that they were going direct to Harper’s Ferry. At eight o’clock they were again assembled, and took up the line of march on the road leading southward. A heavy rain soon commenced to fall, and continued all night.—N. Y. Times, June 6.

—About midnight a squad of secession cavalry made a dash at the outposts of the Twenty-eighth New York Regiment, and fired upon them. The alarm was instantly sounded and the regiment turned out, and a scouting party despatched in pursuit of the enemy, who retreated. The fire was returned by the outposts of the Twenty-eighth, with what effect is not known, as the night was exceedingly dark. No damage whatever was done by the enemy.—N. Y. Times, June 3.

—The Seventy-ninth Regiment, N. Y. S. M, Lieut.-Col. S. M. Elliott, commanding, left New York for Washington, accompanied by a body of recruits of the Seventy-first and Ninth N. Y. Regiments.—(Doc. 226.)

—Gen. Twiggs was appointed Major-General in the Confederate army, and accepted the rank. He will command the military district of Louisiana.—Natchez Courier, June 4.

—Senator Rousseasu, a member of the upper house of the legislature of Kentucky, delivered a strong Union speech before that body on the 31st of May last. The senator exposes the folly of attempting to preserve a neutral attitude in the present crisis, and boldly tells many very plain truths to the secessionists of Kentucky.—(Doc. 227.)

—The bombardment of the rebel batteries at Acquia Creek was re-begun, at 11 80 A. M. by the U. S. gun-boats Freeborn and Pawnee. The firing on shore was scarcely as spirited at any time as on the day before. The heights were abandoned, the guns apparently having been transferred to the earthworks at the railroad termination, to replace the battery silenced there on the 31st ult. This railroad battery was otherwise repaired. The Freeborn approached to within about two miles from the shore, and fired four or five shots, when the Pawnee entered into the conflict, taking a position nearer to the land. For the first two hours, the fire from the shore batteries was sharp, but was returned with more expedition by the Pawnee. During the engagement, she fired 160 shells, one of which was seen to explode immediately over the heads of the Confederates who were working the battery. The observer, through a telescope, saw numbers of bodies of them carried away on wagons. During that time the shore movements were faster than at any other. The Freeborn lodged three shells in succession in the beach battery, perceptibly damaging the works, which had the effect of greatly diminishing the fire. The Freeborn received two shot, one of which passed through the cabin, damaging some of the crockery, but not the vessel, except making a passage through the bulwarks of slight consequence. The Pawnee received eight or nine shot, but all too high to inflict much damage. One struck her main-topsail yard, which was thereby unslung; another grazed the mizzen-masthead and passed through the hammock netting. It is the opinion of the officers on hoard, that had the rebels been provided with good gunners, the vessels might probably have been sank. Some of the Confederates’ shots passed over the masthead to the Maryland shore. After five hours of incessant fire the gun-boats hauled off owing to the fatigue of the men, the day being very warm. During the last hour of the engagement only two or three shots were thrown from the shore, and the gunners were seen stealthily now and then to emerge from the concealment, and hastily load and fire a single gun. The railroad depot and buildings on the shore at Aquia Creek are all destroyed. The damage to the beach battery is not considered permanent, as the Confederates can soon repair it.—N. Y. Times, June 8.

—About daylight, Company B, of the second U. S. Cavalry, 47 privates, under Lieutenant Tompkins and Second Lieutenant Gordon, and three members of the New York Fifth Regiment, Quartermaster Fearing, Assistant Quartermaster Carey, and Adjutant Frank, reconnoitring within 800 yards of Fairfax Courthouse, by the Winchester road, were fired on by two of a picket of the Virginia troops. They captured the picket and then entered the village from the North side, and were fired on from the Union Hotel and from many houses, and from platoons behind fences. They charged down the principal street upon the mounted riflemen whom they dispersed, and then wheeled about and instantly charged back, and were then met by two considerable detachments, with a field-piece. Turning, they cut through a third detachment in the rear, and left the village bringing with them five prisoners, and killing throughout the engagement, as the officer in command thought, twenty-seven men. Two of the United States cavalry are missing, two are killed, and Assistant Quartermaster Carey, of the New York Fifth Regiment, is wounded in the foot. Lieutenant Tompkins had two horses shot under him, the last one falling on his leg, injuring it slightly.—(Doc. 221.)—Washington Star, June 1. (Upon other authority it is said that the only one killed in the rebel camp was Capt. John Q. Marr, of the Warrenton Rifles. He heard the troops coming up and ordered them to halt. They replied that they were Capt. Powell’s Cavalry Company. Capt. Man then ordered his men to arms, when the United States Dragoons fired a volley, killing the captain. Instantly the rebels rushed out in undress, and in disordered condition, and fired on the cavalry at random. Capt. Marr was a member of the Virginia State Convention, and member elect of the Legislature from Pauquier County.—N. Y. Times, June 2.)

—The secession forces on the upper Potomac, attempted to take possession of the ferry boat lying opposite Williamsport, for the purpose, as is conjectured, of removing into “Falling Waters,” a point four miles below, where there is a considerable number of secession troops stationed, who doubtless intended by means of the boat to cross to the Maryland side on a marauding expedition. The Union company at Williamsport, as soon as they observed the opposite party possessing themselves of the boat, ordered them to desist, which they refused to do; whereupon the Union guns opened fire upon them, which was returned, and a brisk fire was kept up on both sides for about an hour. Three or four secessionists were wounded, one seriously. None were killed or wounded on the Federal side.—N. Y. Evening Post, June 8.

—Shortly before 12 o’clock last night a skirmish took place at Arlington Mills, near Alexandria, between Capt. Brown’s company of Zouaves and Capt. Roth’s, Company E, of the Michigan Regiment, and a scouting party of nine Virginians. The Zouaves had just arrived to relieve the Michigan troops, and had posted sentinels when the Virginians attacked them. The Federal troops drove them away. One Zouave was killed and another wounded.

It is supposed one rebel was killed or wounded, as in the retreat he was carried off. The rebels retired in the woods during the night, and this morning took a hand-car and left for parts unknown.—N. Y. Commercial, June 2.

—At night word came into the camp of the Twenty-eighth New York Regiment, that the two dragoons missing from Company B, which made the sally on Fairfax Court-house this morning, were captured by the rebels, and were to be hung. Company B was immediately summoned from their quarters, and mounting, rode up to the Court-house, and having by some means ascertained the precise location of their comrades, made a dash through the village, and recovered the two men, whom they brought back in triumph to the camp.

Of the five Confederate prisoners taken at the Court-house one is a son of the late Major Washington of the Army. He said he did not want to fight against the United States, and made amends by taking the oath of allegiance. —N. Y. Times, June 3.

—The big guns were planted at Cairo, Ill., and the first thirty-two pound ball was sent booming down the Mississippi, a warning to all traitors to keep at a respectable distance. Great satisfaction was expressed throughout the camp that these heavy guns were at length in place. The firing over, a whole regiment of nearly a thousand men, detailed for the day, sprang to their shovels and wheelbarrows, and the work of completing the breastworks went gaily on. The levee itself forms an excellent breastwork, behind which, now that Bird’s Point is fortified, the soldiers would be perfectly protected, and with Sharp’s rifles they could mow down whole regiments, if the steamers that bore them escaped the artillery and effected a landing.—National Intelligencer, June 13.

—Jefferson Davis was serenaded at Richmond, and addressed the assembled crowd. To a person who wanted to hear something about Buena Vista, he said that they “would make the battlefield of Virginia another Buena Vista, and drench it with blood more precious than that which flowed there.” Gov. Wise also addressed the crowd, and told them to arm with any thing they could get, and to take a lesson from John Brown.—(Doc. 222.)

—There is published an order of the Postmaster General of the Southern Confederacy, by which the postmasters throughout the rebel States are ordered to “retain” the stamps, locks, etc., of the various offices—the property of the United States.—(Doc. 223.)

—L. W. Bliss, Acting Governor of Jefferson Territory, proclaimed the neutrality of that Territory, and forbid the payment of any debts or future dues to the United States or any body else outside the Territory; but he generously offered to receive payment for all debts due to outsiders into the Territorial Treasury, and give his notes for it on interest at ten per cent. —(Doc. 224.)

—The address of the Central Committee of Northwestern Virginia to the people of that locality, is published in full.—(Doc. 225.)

—Joseph Holt, of Kentucky, late Post-Master General, under President Buchanan, wrote a letter to J. F. Speed upon the policy of the General Government, the pending revolution, its objects, its probable results if successful, and the duty of Kentucky in the crisis. It strikes directly at the heart of treason, and gives it no show of quarter. It vindicates the right of the Federal Executive to send troops into or through any State to suppress rebellion, and rebukes unsparingly the neutral position assumed by the half-hearted Unionists of Kentucky. It shows that the crimes and outrages of the rebels are such as no Government could afford to overlook, and that their pretence that they “want to be let alone” is absurd.—(Doc. 197½.)

—The North British Review for this month, discussing the future of the United States, says: “There surely cannot be a permanent retrogression and decay in a nation planted in the noblest principles of right and liberty, and combining, in marvellously adjusted proportions, the vigorous and energetic elements of the world’s master races, in the midst of which the tone is given and the march is led by that one of them which has never faltered in its onward course, and which is possessed of such tenacity and versatility, that it is everywhere successful. The present calamity and confusion probably form the crucible fire in which the Union is to be ‘purified, made white, and tried,’ in order that she may take her destined place in the van of the world’s progress in Christianity and civilization, fulfilling, in the resistless march of her dominant Anglo-Saxon race across the American continent, one grand part of the Divine scheme for the spread of that Gospel which shall survive all changes, overthrow all evils, and achieve its mightiest triumphs in the later days dour world’s history.”

—The Charleston Mercury of to-day contains the following:—“Night and day, for the last two months, has the Northern Government been making herculean efforts in its department of war. Preparation on the most gigantic scale has gone on steadily and unflagging, under the intelligent and able superintendence and direction of General Scott. An immense body of volunteers have been thrown into camp, and are drilling eight hours a day under competent officers of West Point training. The arms at hand have been distributed, and all who are to engage soon in battle, have been thoroughly equipped with the best weapons. Factories for the manufacture of cannon, rifles, sabres, bayonets, and ammunition of every description, are in full operation at the North during the whole twenty-four hours of each day. Agents have long since been sent abroad to Europe to procure and forward as fast as possible cargoes of improved arms, and already they have begun to arrive. Great efforts have also been made for the health, comfort, and supplies of Northern troops. Energy and promptitude have characterized their movements both in Maryland and St. Louis, and their success along the border has so far been complete. They have in the West obtained and secured the great repository of arms for that section, equipped our enemies of St. Louis, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, leaving the resistance men of Missouri poorly provided, Kentucky unarmed and overawed, and Tennessee also, with a meagre provision for fighting, dependent on the Cotton States for weapons of defence. Maryland has been cowed and overpowered, Washington rendered as secure as may be, while Virginia is invaded and Richmond threatened with capture. In all this the military proceedings of the North, since the fall of Sumter, have been eminently wise. For the purpose of overpowering, disheartening, and gaining the first advantages, which, both at home and abroad, are of immense importance, the concentration of all the forces available as promptly as possible, has been clearly the course of generalship and true economy. The first blow is said to be often half the battle. The war policy of Scott and the Northern Government has all the effect of the first blow. The final result we cannot, in the slightest degree, doubt. The immediate signal will depend, in a great measure, upon the number of troops now got ready, and the efficiency of the preparation made for them by the Confederate Government during the same period Scott has been at work. Let us not commit the mistake of underrating our enemy, or of supposing that, in modern warfare, it is only the courage of a people and the relative military talent of their field-officers that decide the issues of war. Ability in combinations and bravery in executing them may fail of success where the material is wanting or deficient. An hour’s delay of a corps of reserve lost the battle of Waterloo; and Napoleon fought the battle with the best troops in the world. They were cut to pieces.”

—The United States ship Powhatan captured the Mary Clinton, from Charleston for New Orleans, off the Pass L’Outre, with a full cargo of rice, peas, &c.—New Orleans Picayune, June 1.

—Mr. W. H. Russell’s letters from the South to the London Times, create much comment. According to one dated April 30, the South Carolinians long for “one of the royal race of England to rule” over them.—(Doc. 217.)

—The Seventh Regiment, N. Y. S. M., left Washington for New York. It made a fine appearance and received on their departure the same warm eulogium that greeted their arrival. —(Doc. 218.)

—The National Intelligencer of to-day contains the correspondence between the bank presidents of the city of New York and the Governor of the State, relative to the proclamation of Governor Brown of Georgia, of the 26th of April last.

—The First Regiment of Maine Volunteers left Portland at 8 30 this morning, in a train of eleven cars. They were escorted through the city by the Fifth Regiment, and nearly the whole population. The train left amid the wildest cheering, and a salute from the artillery.—(Doc. 219.)

—Ex-Governor Pratt, of Maryland, was arrested this evening at Annapolis, by order of the Government, and taken to the Washington Navy-Yard.—Boston Transcript, May 31.

—At Acquia Creek, 55 miles below Washington on the Potomac, the U. S. gun-boat Freeborn, Capt. Ward, opened fire about 10 A. M., on the ferry-boat Page, lying at the depot of the Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Railroad. A second round was fired at the depot building, and a third across the bow of the Page. Three batteries on shore, two in the earthwork, near the depot, and a third from the hill above, immediately opened on the Freeborn, when the gun-boat Anacosta came to her assistance. As soon as the vessels had fixed their range they fired with marked effect. The Anacosta took up a position and played upon the depot with rapidity, firing thirteen shells, three of them taking effect and causing much consternation among the rebels. Several of the Freeborn’s shells fell into the batteries. The fire from the earthwork batteries ceased in a short time, but a terrific fire was kept up from the main battery on the hill. The boats hauled off at 10 minutes of 12.—(Doc. 220.)

June 1.—